Everton seal Maupay transfer from Brighton

Maupay looks a player to me with a good edge about him. Could do a lot worse. Just a shame him or whoever is not here for Saturday. Potentially another 3 points up the swanny. And then Tuesday.

El Bobble has been off his rocker lately. Confirmed Gueye about two weeks ago and said on his podcast we had agreed terms for Sarr.

Kenwright said "What can I give you that will make you happier?"

Frank thought about it and said "More pay?"

Bill got right on the phone to Brighton… Total mix-up.

I will get my coat!

Not one of my favourite options but better than what we have (not that I think that is a good reason to sign someone).

I need convincing too, I found this on Grand Old Team that gives a good case for him, worth a read:

Reasons why I think at 㾻M he'd be a good, pragmatic signing.

- Brighton wanted to keep him. He wouldn't renew. He's been an important player for them and still would be if he wanted to stay.

- He's only available, and for a good price because he's in the last year of his deal. From January, he can open talks with any foreign club about a free transfer.

- League goals - 10 in 37, 8 in 33, 8 in 35. Their top goal scorer in those 3 seasons. Over those 3 years, he's contributed a third of their goals.

- Compare how he'd rank at 10, 8 and 8 in an Everton team the past 3 years.

- He's 25, he hit double figures (ok, 10 league goals) in his debut season as a 21-/22-year-old for Brighton.

- It sounds daft, but he tends to score goals that matter. It's not like he slots 3 in a 4-0 win to bump up his numbers - 'Take away the nine he netted in 2021-22 and Brighton's record-breaking ninth place finish becomes 14th spot in the table. Maupay was single-handedly worth seven points last season.'

- He has a very good fitness record.

- People like to say 'Brighton create loads of chances, Maupay misses loads' - he has a better conversion rate than most, including Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.

- He's low risk in that he's 'proven' in the Prem, young enough to do a few years and sell for profit.

- Playing style. He's a bit street footballer – he brings energy, tenacity and some snide. He's a bit of an angry ant -– he can't play upfront on his tod, but he creates space for those around him. Evertonians tend to like that type of player.

- Long term target so it's not a knee-jerk panic - we were linked last summer but had no chance because Brighton wouldn't sell.

He'd be a very useful player and for 㾻M, all day.

It would be double that, and I doubt Brighton would sell if he had 4 years on his contract.

He's always seemed to underachieve, but he's not a bad player. At 26 he's at a good age. He'd be an adequate replacement for Richarlison in terms of output.

Not the same potential, but again, with our current target of securing a mid-table finish, he's a decent option at the price.

He's not the Striker/goalscorer we need, but will suffice as one of the (2?) wide-forward signings we need.

A busy week ahead

(Fish/nautical puns intended)

Wouldn't be my top choice but then beggars can't be choosers.

What annoys me is that I think Brighton will be chuffed to get 㾻m for a player in his final year and will probably use it to buy a younger striker that we should be getting instead of Maupay!

Impressed with the variety of goals, doesn't look too shabby to me, but all a throw of dice in that price bracket!

Given our start, I'd say the next handful of games are pretty important so he must be nailed on to score.

If you're content with this signing then you've been desensitised to the utter shit show that this club has become.

Demand better.

I'm not including Calvert-Lewin because we can't rely on him staying fit and no doubt he won't even be here soon enough. Another one that gets better the more he's out.

That is a realistic assessment of Maupay's and Everton's failings.

I'll do it now if this is true: "Guilty!"

Believe me when I tell you this lad is as ordinary as it gets. Why the fuck doesn't this club just go out of business and do us all a favour.

There's hundreds and I mean hundreds of better options out there. Fighting for his signature with a club that's spent the last god knows how many years out of the top flight.

Fuck off, Everton, please... seriously, Fuck right off. So annoyed.

Anyone who sees Maupay as a decent signing has clearly been battered into submission by a completely inept transfer strategy.

I'm of the opinion that Gordon is signed and sealed for Chelsea but with a clause to say he can't make the move until transfer deadline day. He won't be in the starting XI on Saturday due to another mysterious injury.

If we go beyond deadline day with no Richarlison and no Gordon but with Maupay holding up a shirt at Finch Farm, then we're fucked. We deserve to go down for putting up with this crap.

Is that really the best we can come up with? A player who cannot get into Brighton's first team as a regular starter?!

“Judge me at the end of this window” – I am and it reinforces what I think – the club is clueless in unearthing hungry enthusiastic gems from lower leagues or abroad. Surely Diaz from Blackburn represents better value for the same price?

Sad reflection on the shit show that is Everton FC. I wish him luck, he will need it.

Hopefully sell Gordon and get a few loans from Chelsea and we might make 36 points.

Just treading water it's what we do... don't mention the War, or the Board.

Diaz, whilst untested, scores quite a variety of different goals... but I'm no expert.

At the end of the day, he's better than Rondon.

I also hope the guy with the spray can who wanted Lampard in has been off to Halfords for a few fresh tinnies to suggest some more fan-friendly options outside Goodison!

Much more likely it was something more to their speed. Dumb and Dumber or the Police Academy franchise spring to mind.

For what it's worth, the Diaz talk is also heating up on social media.

The fact that Brighton doesn't really care if he leaves says it all. Why would Everton want or need to buy a Brighton reject?? This is worse than buying Man Utd cast-offs. Dump this idea now.

Think I'd see them as pretty similar output wise to be honest. Not sure sure either would really elevate us considerably but both should be able to offer something and hopefully around 8-12 goals a season.

Think it's plausible we get them both, especially if we sell Gordon.

Also, I'm not sure it's fair to call Maupay a Brighton reject, he's been their top scorer 3 years in a row and would be staying if not near end of his contract, which I believe he didn't want to extend.

What has happened to this club? Slipping to such low standards has now become the norm.

I really despair at the way the club is being managed and the waste of money buying dross over the last few years.

After the pain of last season, I was hoping for something better this season. A 10th place finish would have been good enough for me and then a rebuild and reset.

However, based on what I have seen so far, I fear the worst. How the mighty have fallen!

Maupay's kind of infamous for the ones he misses.

An earlier poster says ' at least he's better than Rondon' ... jeez.

On balance, I favour Brereton-Diaz because I expect he's desperate to make the step up and will put the work in. Maupay might just be after a 3-year wage packet, having already peaked.

Calvert-Lewin is comfortably better than both, surely, when fit.

If Gordon goes, maybe one like this and then a younger, more exciting talent like Wahi or Joao Pedro would be good – players who could well become better than Calvert-Lewin.

Yeah but he's 35, injury-prone, and wants about half a million a week.

Sounds like the dictionary definition of a Moshiri era signing then, doesn't it KK? (#35)

Extra bonus points: he's South American to boot!!!

What a day. Deadwood out followed by more deadwood in. A veritable log flume of never-ending deadwood. At least we know who we'll be adding to the Turkey list next summer to try and offload part of another 3 years' pay and possibly recoup one or two million pounds.

He works hard. That makes him the new Bernie Wright then, but with Barlow's finishing skills thrown in. Better than Rondon? Hardly a qualification. I bet there's a couple of hundred TWers on here that could legitimately claim that after the Fleetwood 'performance' and won't cost 㾻 million. Potter will be laughing his head off if they can offload Maupay and get millions from the biggest mugs in the Premier League in the process.

Seriously, I believe Simms has more to offer than Maupay and won't cost 㾻 million.

However, I no longer feel confident about anyone we sign being able to make a difference.

Everton must be the World's leaders in signing duds and then we can't get rid of them.

It was a big disappointment for Dele Alli not to have made the grade here as he was quite the livewire in his early days at Spurs. But his story can be applied to many who have come to Goodison in recent years.

If only there was a teleprompter for us all to express our joy and thanks to Blue Bill. I knew there was a reason besides football that 1984 didn't seem so bad.

He's like a James Rodriguez big brother.

Not for me even at 㾻M. Simms should have been given a shot for that outlay,

I am lost with the Gordon saga. I can't be sure if it's conspiracy leading to a Deadline Day sale and the money being whisked away or if its real negations to get a good deal,

Either way, another frustrating depressing week -- not looking to the weekend again... doubt if we will get anything from Brentford!

It certainly applies to Everton. I wish to God that this Transfer Window was over!

I think he'll bag a few goals and will create more movement in and around the opposition box. He's certainly an upgrade on Rondon.

There has got to be a realisation from our fanbase in regards to tempering expectations, and that in all likeliness, it will be a Bottom 5 or 6 finish this season.

I don't rate Che Adams as well, so stay away from that one.

Nearly on four games in, another week gone by and no forward signing. Mismanagement.

Of course he's no world beater.

We can't afford a world beater. And frankly, if we could, he wouldn't want to come to us.

He's better than what we have, and our ambition right now is to finish somewhere between 9th-15th.

Certainly we should want better, but I'll take mediocrity ahead of what we suffered through last season.

Maupay and Diaz will do nicely. Let's walk before we can run.

Way to go, Everton. If we sign this reject and get rid of Anthony Gordon, then we had better strap in for a relegation fight.

Because Maupay is definitely a 'marquis' signing. Marquis de Sade anyway.

It helps that our prospective signing is French as well.

This smells of desperation to try and placate the fan base.

Jay @47, we are already in a relegation fight (with Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Southampton or Aston Villa).

I happen to think that it's a fight we won't win this time, after years of negligent decline. If we get Maupay, it will be somehow apt.

Diaz sounds the sort of forward we should be signing.

Is it me, but frustration turns to laughter sometimes supporting this club. Just don't understand why a striker even on loan wasn't brought in pre-season?

How can we justify keeping Gordon when 㿞M is on the table? Surely we need to sell Gordon and go and buy a half-decent striker.

Maupay is one of those players that does a fair bit of running and is a pest but he does miss more than he scores.

On a positive note, he is better than Rondon and is mobile enough to play in a front 3.

He could be the next Peter Eastoe or Eamon O'Keefe for all we know!

Players moving from Championship the goals output is about half to 1/3 in EPL. So Maupay and Diaz is on similar level. I think in Brighton's model, they'll buy players with potential and see if they hit the jackpot. They've been very successful recently with their scouting and dealings. They can do that because their goal is probably just stay in EPL. Not aiming to challenge the top 6. Also, they've already established a good core and work ethics in the team.

On the other hand, we are at a different point on the curve at the moment. We're in crisis. We need someone proven rather than betting on potential. That's why the Maupay deal suits both parties. Bright take the $15m and bet on younger potential who might score 20 goals in EPL per season. Or could turn out to be a dud. Where we need someone proven who's hard working, can complement DCL and within how much we can afford.

Players moving from Championship the goals output is about half to 1/3 in EPL. So Maupay and Diaz is on similar level. I think in Brighton's model, they'll buy players with potential and see if they hit the jackpot. They've been very successful recently with their scouting and dealings. They can do that because their goal is probably just stay in EPL. Not aiming to challenge the top 6. Also, they've already established a good core and work ethics in the team.

On the other hand, we are at a different point on the curve at the moment. We're in crisis. We need someone proven rather than betting on potential. That's why the Maupay deal suits both parties. Bright take the $15m and bet on younger potential who might score 20 goals in EPL per season. Or could turn out to be a dud. Where we need someone proven who's hard working, can complement DCL and within how much we can afford.

Maupay and another similar player signing up front is probably about what we can hope for now. Let's hope it's enough to keep us safe.

We now buy a failure for more than Brighton did. What the Fuck!!! We are the Fuckwit Club of all Fuckwit Clubs???

Ie. Didn't watch any Everton games last season to see what a handful Richarlison was even when he wasn't scoring.

I do get bored of people slagging off players that they haven't watched aside from against Everton. We just start to sound like Arsenal and Spurs fans.

We are where we are. If we could get Maupay and Brereton in then it would massively improve this current squad. We have nothing upfront. We need people that are a handful and want to play for the club.

If he wants to come just for money then fair enough, move on. But if he's up for it then get him in because we need to compete up front

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I don't know much about this guy - I only watch Everton games - fallen out of love with football a long time ago - but still an Evertonian - the madness!

His stats appear much better than Gordon's, marginally worse than Richarlison's - read into that what you will!

I know I am not looking at the potential factor here - but needs must!

Also - could be a load of bollox - I never believe a player has signed until he is running around in an Everton shirt!

I don't believe for one minute that that's acceptable for an Everton forward let alone one with little physical presence and not good in the air.

FFS who is making the decisions at Everton. We need 50 goals a season to end midtable.

Lets say 5 come from the defenders and 5 from MF that leaves 40 from the front 3 so that will be 1 for McNeil, 6 for Gray, 8 from Maupay and 25 from DCL or his replacement and that's assuming we don't go 5 at the back all season.

Now if were talking Brereton-Diaz and DCL or Broja and bring in this Garner lad I would be more confident but not someone as mediocre as MAupay and before anyone says it I have watched Brighton over that last few seasons and the lad is a waster in front of goal.

Selling Richarlison and Gordon and replacing them with Dwight McNeill and Neal Maupay even tops replacing Lukaku with that Rat, Wayne Rooney.

In 2-3 windows, we've sold half our best players, collected a plethora of attacking players incapable of scoring or assisting, not a single fullback that's anything better than useless. Accumulated 6 Centre backs, 3 of whom
are donkeys, 4 of whom, can only play in the centre of a 3, with the 2 left, being the appalling Holgate and a guy thats out again, for half the season.

We also haven't got a single midfield player that's remotely comfortable with a ball at their feet and a squad that's ever increasing with age.

No amount of fan intervention will be enough to rescue this shower of shit from relegation this time round.

Yet no one can argue, that it would be thoroughly deserving, to see Everton finally get what the board has clearly been craving.. . . Championship Football, in a 60,000 seater stadium!

Being an Evertonian, is like having Inherited a smackhead as an offspring.

I too feel robbed, abused, pittied, drained of life and enthusiasm.

I too have reached the point, where washing your hands of the issue, is the only logical and healthy solution.

Richarlison is way better, 42 in 175 games. 1 in 4.17

Maupay is 26 in 102 - 1 in 3.92

Interesting then that Maupay has a reputation for missing lots of chances.

Don't get me wrong, I'd take DCL and Richy over Maupay every time. I'm just wondering where the 'misses lots' reputation came from.

BTW, as one may expect with the finishing we have seen from him, Gray is excellent in this regard. Only 9 big chances missed in 170 games, 1 in 18.9 or about 2 a season.

Interestingly enough, and proof that stats don't tell the whole story. Harry Kane has missed 117 big chances in 285 games (1 in 2.4 games). Salah even worse at 95 in 196 (1 in 2.1). The big difference of course is they get a lot more chances and are probably 3-0 up when they miss!

Anyway, as I said, not a big one for stats ;-)

Diaz or Maupay are likely to cost somewhere in that 15-20m. Therefore its a gamble. The issue I have is that with Maupay, that gamble was already taken by Brighton and appears to have failed. 8 a season being proof of that.

With Diaz, we simply do not know how he would cope with the Prem and in that sense it is a true gamble. But that's what a gamble is. Not wasting money on an already failed gamble but having a go at something else. He may get 20 a season or he may get 8. But I think its unlikely he would get less than Maupay.

Transfermarkt statistics bear me out. Maupay has scored a goal every 290 minutes in Prem competition. That's poor for a striker, barely better than Rondon (325).

By comparison, Richarlison scored every 234 minutes of his Everton career (all competitions) and Calvert-Lewin has scored every 213 minutes.

Agreed, stats only tell a bit part of the whole story. I just put it out there for people to have a convenient gander at and maybe to suggest that the outgoings weren't/aren't as productive as fans think, and the incomings not as bad. That said, I have no idea about this player other than a quick look at the stats and better informed ToffeeWebbers than me could possibly spread some objective light on this.

Mike (69) - Goals per game or minutes per goal (same stat really) are indicative of the whole team in general though as well as the individuals skill to finish them. He can't score them if the chances are not created etc etc. Percent of 'big chances' missed is purely a player skill/composure thing and nothing to do with the team.

Don't get me wrong, I would rather have Watkins, Diaz, Broja and even Adams ahead of Maupay. I just think the 'Maupay misses a lot' is an unfair label.

Our striker hunt is a bit like the dead parrot sketch in monty python...

Totally agree with Sam on Brighton. Brighton have bought well, got their use out of him and will get £15m for him with a year left on his contract.

We get an OK forward that will have no resale value at 30. Whilst they'll invest £15m in a young striker with potential. Roll on 4 years, and we have no asset and they probably have a £30-50m striker.

I'm obviously being positive, because like Barry W said, I only really watch Everton nowadays, but I now feel that it's time for Evertonians to put real pressure on our absent owner, to sell the club and let us try and progress, or change the hierarchy, which I'm not sure he's prepared to do, in these very worrying times.

Something tells me that there's going to be a lot of movement in the last week of the transfer window, because we definitely need more players, otherwise it's going to be a very, very long season. We will see?

Just like Everton to mess it up. That is the moment we should of been improving the squad. Covid killed us but so did our inept board who failed to progress and then hired Benitez.

Sad to think out of all them names only Allan, Doucoure and DCL remain as Everton players. Scary stuff.

Back up or an alternative for Calvert-Lewin? That't the space we're in and maybe this player can be that.

I always like to wait and see how a player performs for Everton before judging them. Paul Power, Seamus Coleman, Tim Cahill. All underwhelming signings at the time, but went on to become favourites and in one case, win the league title. Trust the manager and let him make his decisions based on the space he is able to operate in. As mentioned earlier, the player is a hard worker. That is a fundamental aspect to a footballer and one that will resonate with Evertonians.

For those promoting Potter as a manager, he has obviously trusted this player for a couple of seasons. In another universe, had he been appointed Everton manager and brought him to Goodison, would you be as critical of this potential signing?

Frank personally spoke to him on the phone about coming here a few days ago if the rumours are to be believed so they must see him as a forward who can offer something a bit different to give him options starting and also from the bench.

I think he is definitely being signed as a no2, also someone who compliments DCL in the expected 352. DCL is seen as a very valuable asset and they will want to keep him as the main man getting the goals, to keep his sale value high as well as being good for us.

I need convincing too, I found this on Grand Old Team that gives a good case for him, worth a read. (Posted on the Gordon thread but more relevant here).

“Reasons why I think at 㾻m he'd be a good, pragmatic signing.

- Brighton wanted to keep him. He wouldn't renew. He's been an important player for them and still would be if he wanted to stay.

- He's only available, and for a good price because he's in the last year of his deal. From January, he can open talks with any foreign club about a free transfer.

- League goals - 10 in 37, 8 in 33, 8 in 35. Their top goal scorer in those 3 seasons. Over those 3 years, he's contributed a third of their goals.

- Compare how he'd rank at 10, 8 and 8 in an Everton team the past 3 years.

- He's 25, he hit double figures (ok, 10 league goals) in his debut season as a 21/22 year old for Brighton.

- It sounds daft, but he tends to score goals that matter. It's not like he slots 3 in a 4-0 win to bump up his numbers - 'Take away the nine he netted in 2021-22 and Brighton's record-breaking ninth place finish becomes 14th spot in the table. Maupay was single-handedly worth seven points last season.'

- He has a very good fitness record.

- People like to say 'Brighton create loads of chances, Maupay misses loads' - he has a better conversion rate than most, including Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.

- He's low risk in that he's 'proven' in the Prem, young enough to do a few years and sell for profit.

- Playing style. He's a bit street footballer - he brings energy, tenacity and some snide. He's a bit of an angry ant - he can't play upfront on his tod, but he creates space for those around him. Evertonians tend to like that type of player.

- Long term target so it's not a knee jerk panic - we were linked last summer but had no chance because Brighton wouldn't sell;

He'd be a very useful player and for 㾻m, all day.

It would be double that, and I doubt Brighton would sell if he had 4 years on his contract.”

I think this signing would not be enough, but gives some depth and options to our forward line. Not a no1 dynamic player at all but someone who is a proven PL operator.

Sometimes it is not just about having three megastar Billy Big Bollocks as forwards but players who dovetail , form an understanding and play well together. I think this is what Frank is trying to achieve.

I think there is no doubt we need more forward threat too, especially with Gordon's likely exit DCLs injuries, Dele leaving and Rondon being wholly inadequate at this level.

Adams would have been a better bet but his price has gone up, I actually saw a big improvement in Che Adam's towards the end of last season so not surprised he's started the season well.

If I were Maupay I wouldn't want to come here, the typical knee-jerk "we are Everton we are better than this" emotional nonsense which remains firmly based on an institutional memory of greatness last witnessed 35 years ago. I'm not saying forget, I am saying stop judging our standards now based on then! It generates negativity which permeates the club and transcends to the players. Thankfully we have top business people running the club who know what they are doing! Ok that last sentence was tongue in cheek :)

If Frank and our DOF have chosen him then that is the plan based on the resources at their disposal. We have to let them get on with it, Maupay is not a bad player and an able deputy. Personally I would have preferred the punt on Brereton-Diaz who may just kick on to be better but its a gamble, Maupay is the safer option. Semenyo from Bristol would cost the same and is a relative unknown, a bigger risk.

I do think however that much depends on Gordon, if we sell and suddenly have a pot of cash then we would be missing a trick not to have upgraded our replacement striker. I am starting to think Chelski had a deadline and didn't meet it. Maupay, Kudos on loan and Garner might be the remaining incomings for a total of about 㿊-㿏M.

Runs about a lot. Works hard off the ball. Scores about 8-10 a season. Sullen of face.

He's a near exact replica of Richarlison!

God help us if this is the best we can do.

I remember talking to a United fan years ago and he was whinging about the chances Andy Cole missed. I had to remind him exactly how many goals he scored (a hell of a lot).

Maupay is not a bad option. Albeit, not
a great one.

He's better than Rondon and nobody which is what we currently have available, that's for sure.

He has a 1 in 4ish record for Brighton. If we can get him and another player capable of getting between 5-10 goals in a season then this is an improvement on our current options. The assumption is that DCL returns to the team and should be a 15 goal a season type striker.

What I like about Maupay is that he's horrible to play against. He's a pest. He's confrontational. He backs himself.

Everton and it's players have lacked belief for so long it wouldn't be a bad thing to have someone with these qualities at the club.

He's a near exact replica of Richarlison!
God help us if this is the best we can do.

But I bet you would have been happy if Richarlison had stayed and we went into the season with him and DCL up front.

I don't know what kind of players some of you expect Everton to be able to compete for.

Me, I'd sign both Maupay and Diaz for a combined 㿊M which would probably give us 15 -25 goals a season and two players who are comfortable in multiple forward positions.

I'm looking at them compared to the likes of Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins. Those two would probably cost a combined 㿲M for a very similar number of goals.

I was taking the piss.

He's basically a striker who needs more chances than average to get a goal. This is fine when playing for a zippy, exciting Brighton team who create loads of chances but will be quite different when playing for us. A fit DCL would get a hatload playing in the 6 yard box for Brighton.

A further problem with him is I can't think of a player more unlikely to undo his own good work over the course of a game. Missing penalties he's won, getting a red/yellow after scoring etc.

Sad thing is that we probably do still need him. I think that's more an indictment of us than an endorsement of him, though.

The only slightly positive thing I can say is that his snarky, shitty attitude is the kind of thing we like, and will be a breath of fresh air compared to the diminishing numbers who don't seem like they could care less.

I'm starting to feel impressed with Thelwell again (although no doubt I will change my mind several times before next week), if we'd signed Adams for 㿅m I'd have had my head in my hands (again)

We need a central midfielder, I prefer Garner to Gana but would take Gana, as again he would be an upgrade. We also need a player who can play along the front line, hoping for Diaz. Any additional recruits will be a bonus at this stage.

We just have to accept that given our finances and our current status as a club, trophy less for the past 27 years, that this is the space that we find ourselves in.

Success this year, will be good runs in both Cup competitions and no relegation worries in the month of May. A mid table finish would be an achievement as our squad is nowhere near as strong as:

Manchester City
Liverpool
Spurs
Arsenal
Chelsea
West Ham
Manchester United
Newcastle and
Leeds

Best of luck to the boys heading out to Turkey.

Lets get behind the manager and the team and if we hit a points total for the season somewhere in the high 40's that will definitely be a sign of improvement.

We are not, I repeat NOT, in a relegation fight. It might be your opinion that we may end up in one.. but we are currently not in one. However if we sell our best assets and are 'willing to to accept the mediocrity' of replacing them with shite - then we certainly will be.

Have some bloody dignity.

Maupay, 102 games, 26 goals, 8 assists. Cost Brighton £14m

Richarlison, 100 games, 30 goals, 11 assists. Cost us £35m.

Maybe, just maybe, the moral of the story is that we should have bought Maupay and not Richarlison and saved £21 million in transfer fees & £40k a week in wages.

He is a rarity at this price of having good technique with the ability to score the scruffy as well as quality goals. Good passing ability and aggresive with an air of cockiness I say get him.

I like the way you have, in your words, put all this in context. None of us fans are able to immediately see the bigger picture in the way that Lampard & Co are. Also we all have our own, relatively fixed ideas as to who fits whatever bill we are talking about.

I too looked at the potential signing of Maupay and thought and said to myself that his stats (goals) is not good enough for what we need. There are much better out there for about the same money.

But I have to agree with the view you expressed which really sums up the situation as it actually is when you said, "If Frank and our DOF have chosen him then that is the plan based on the resources at their disposal. We have to let them get on with it, Maupay is not a bad player and an able deputy (to DCL). Personally I would have preferred the punt on Brereton-Diaz who may just kick on to be better but its a gamble, Maupay is the safer option "

It is they who will be judged on their actions at the end of the day and NOT us.

I just wish they would get on with it and put us out of our misery.

First home game against the RS next week, at least he has some sort of chance to become an instant hero. The last forward I remember making his Goodison debut vs them is still quite popular after nearly 30 years.

The untried Grahame Sharp from Dumbarton for £150,000.

The crocked injury prone Andy Gray from Wolves who no-one else wanted and didn't seem to score regularly for ages but we supported him to the hilt.

I go back to my earlier point, if Potter was Everton king for a day, I doubt many would question this one.

For the stattos, this player's statistics are on a par with Richarlison, so not bad back up if that's what he's being brought in for.

To reiterate my previous, I'll wait and see him in a Everton shirt. If it happens.

Everton's signings in general have been poor. Onana might turn out to be good, but we've paid 㿊m for a player who was only ٤m 12 months ago and only started 11 games last season. Why can't we find these players when they're ٤m players? Why do we trust Onana at 21 years old, but we don't trust Warrington at a similar age? Why do we spend 㿀m on McNeil? Are there not equally as promising players in the lower leagues for a fraction of the cost?

Imagine getting rid of Gordon who epitomises everything we should be in terms of commitment and replacing him with McNeil and Maupay. We're meant to sell to reinvest, not sell to paper over cracks.

But we are a mediocre club right now, with an immediate ambition of staying in the Premier League. We're paying for years of mis-management.

The best we can probably do is a mixture of short-termism and long-term thinking – so we buy Onana for the future, but sell Gordon. Buy Patterson, but also buy Maupay and McNeil. It seems to be a mix of high-risk punts on youngsters, and journeymen for relatively low transfer fees.

The depressing thing is just how unambitious our squad will look when the transfer window closes. Richarlison and Gordon gone, McNeil and Maupay in. No disrespect to the latter two, but surely nobody can see us as a club with ambition with that kind of a transfer policy? But that's the reality of where we are.

Instead, we did nothing and have already lost the points and probably will do at Brentford tomorrow, without any new additions up front.

I imagine this is Kenwright's doing, he dithers as head of transfers, he's a dinosaur when it comes to pushing through deals and one of the main reasons for our permanent decline. Get him out, for pity's sake!

I will concede that twat needs to go, but I always have done!

Out-dated, reminiscing, self-centered twerp!

Richarlison was never prolific. His goals and assists in the Premier League are on par with Richarlison and every time I've watched the lad, he runs his socks off, is a real pain in the arse for defences, makes things happen, a lot like Richarlison.

I think he's one of them players, like Richarlison, where if he's playing for your team you appreciate what he brings, where other teams don't really see it.

10-12 goals would be more than any of Gray, Gordon, Rondon & any midfield player. So let's not write the guy off because we are not buying him off PSG or Real Madrid.

I can recall a lot of people slating Everton for buying a Watford winger for 㿔M who didn't have the best record. He turned out to be crowd favourite, despite not being prolific.

It's a squad game and we all know our squad has been weak, an injury or wo and we struggle. He would be a good addition to the squad, an option when Calvert-Lewin is out or not having a good game, or give Calvert-Lewin a reminder that he's not guaranteed to start if not in form.

Good business for me.

Hope young Gordon stays, but I expect his sale will partly fund this purchase and an additional midfielder.

All a bit of a mess, but we expected that and I think we might just be going in the right direction. A win tomorrow would ease the nerves.

I like the idea that he's as big a twat as Richarlison, we need some of that in the team.

Generally speaking, he scored a hat full in the Championship and has had a decent return in the Premier League. I'd be happy with him coming in.

I'm not a fan of Maupay but once he puts the shirt on …

At least Bill knows his way around, I'm sure Moshiri is pissed every day in Monaco before noon. Let's not insist he takes full control, let's just get him out!

Hallmarks of a panic buy.

“Bill Knows His Way Around”...?!

That runs “We've Had Some Good Times” close.

I'm very disappointed with Thelwell. I thought he would unearth a few young gems who would excite the fans with their potential.

With the exception of Onana, we have gone mostly for cast-offs.

Compared to the last 5 years. the Kenwright years are starting to look like the Wonder Years.

Who needs goals anyway?

If this is the only "striker" we get, we'll be relegated.

You didn't really think you could slip that in there as a throwaway comment. His continuing damage and ineptitude know no limits. I wouldn't mind so much if he was a Peter Swales type. Best interests of the club at heart but a disaster for everything he touches.

Some people have short memories. Don't they remember fat Sam panic buying just to get bodies in? We ended up with Tosun for 4 years on 𧴜k a week, Walcott too on similar or more wages. What a disgrace. I'd rather they get the right people than just bodies for the sake of it.

Some people always think we are 2 signings away from being fucking boss again… get real! This is a long-term job, the shitshow Frank and Kev inherited is going to take 2 years minimum.

We need people to do a job now that maybe won't be around in 2 years as the squad and team develop, that's how you progress.

So much negativity, don't matter what strikers or forward options we get, Frank and Kev are not going to please everyone, especially on TW. There will be people on deadline day calling for his head even before any signings have kicked a ball for the Blues.

Lester Yip (105) makes a very good point about trying to find a player who might work in tandem with Calvert-Lewin – running beyond the striker, which is an area we've struggled in for years. It might not be how we end up playing, but at least there is some thought behind it.

Kevin Molloy (101) also points out that the proposed fee of 㾻 million is not exorbitant for a player who has done all right in the Premier League. If he wasn't in the last year of his contract, then he'd be commanding a 㿀 million fee at least.

That would be a fair market price for him, considering he has only just turned 26. As long as his wages are not prohibitive, then the option of offloading him for a similar fee in the next 2 years is probably there.

I have never been very impressed by Maupay. I think he does the basics okay, but is not blessed with any major attributes – skill, pace, power, aerial ability, shooting – everything is average at best. His strengths are that he is tenacious, that he is a nuisance, and that he has it in him to put extra pressure on defenders.

I think Lampard wants a striker who has it in him to buzz around defenders in a high press, and Maupay will bring that quality in a much greater fashion than Calvert-Lewin and Rondon can.

Maupay is only 26, so I believe he's the best option for the figures quoted, as Diaz hasn't played Premier League yet. He is skilful, good feet, good in the air, scores special goals, misses easier chances, but will definitely be a big improvement on Rondon.

The reason Potter is selling him, he's in the last year of his conract, and listening to Potter last week, he was hoping he stays. I also hope we sign Garner.

Watching Frank's press conference, he's disgusted that the "powers that be" still haven't the signings made so late into the window. He also wants to keep Gordon.

He'll be able to walk straight into the team, he'll work hard, be a bit of a shithouse, and can play with the ball at his feet. If he can get 10 goals, he'll be a big hit with the fans.

At 26, he's reaching his prime now, and will be a good option for 3-4 years to come. Again, not a world beater, but we are not at the level of buying Nunez, Isak, or Gabriel Jesus.

If we get him, Diaz, and Calvert-Lewin can get fit, we actually have options going forward.

Lots of moving parts, to those of you playing Football Manager, here in the real world, this is a complex process. Finding the right players with the right attitudes with the right profile and at the right price (including contract) is tricky, especially when every other club is doing the same.

I think we are all in agreement that not having a striker for those first games was a dreadful bit of Everton planning. Lightly brushing aside that ridiculousness, we are where we are.

One can only assume we've been putting some eggs in another basket and that gamble has backfired, I don't believe it's a case of the complete ineptitude it seems to the rest of the world. There will be a story behind it and one we will unlikely ever know.

One of two things are likely to happen now IMO. Maupay is our out-and-out (back-up) striker. If Gordon is to be sold, I expect 㿨M to go on Brereton Diaz, Garner and perhaps Kudus with money to swell the coffers/fend off FFP. Or Gordon is to be kept and we get Gana, another striker on loan along with hopefully Kudus on loan. I want Brereton Diaz as well as Maupay as it means we can move on Rondon and he gives us another option at 4-3-3.

Would this be such a bad team:

Pickford
Tarkowski
Coady
Holgate or Godfrey
Patterson
Mykolenko
Onana
Garner or Gueye
Iwobi or Kudus
Calvert-Lewin
Brereton Diaz or Maupay

1. The players we have recruited all have good injury records as far as I can see and will contribute this season, however mediocre that may be.

2. It looks like Moshiri is keeping his nose out of footballing matters and perhaps has been scared straight after the abyss his investment was looking into last season. He will sell, no doubt about it, but for him lower mid-table is now his Champions League position. Once that happens and the stadium is built, he will be off. No bad thing.

3. I much prefer Thelwell to Brands at this stage of both their time with us. We were all very charmed by Brands as we had Walsh before him.

Kevin Thelwell has proven Premier League experience and I think the side will evolve for the better under him.

For me, Frank is passing through but, if the foundations are laid, we will be a better side to manage. The DoF is so important these days and he appears to be quietly doing his business rather than staring in club press releases telling young players' mums “We'll take care of him” – that turned out well!

We are buying on the never to meet FFP.

I just don't understand why we haven't sold Gordon. We will never get offered that money again for him.

The club is a very long way from European Football or winning any competitions.

My only hope is we survive in the Premier League until the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock is finished and these two cowboys ride off into the horizon (with their millions) and leave us the fuck alone.

It's something like a game of chess for the manager/coach - do you sacrifice a rook but gain a knight and a bishop that might be a stronger option?

There is obviously some urgency to the signing of a striker, so this resolves it. However, a few observations.

Brighton have already bought his replacements in Sima, Encisco and Undav for about the same cost. Encisco and Sima need time but each could be a lot better than Maupay. Brighton can use the proceeds to buy more high-quality youth. This is how they have assembled a good squad so quickly.

We on the other hand continue to pay the premium for Premier League players. This is okay now and again but the continued focus has seen our overall quality deteriorate sharply, and at great expense, since Moyes left. It's a bad strategy.

I am hopeful there will be another forward acquisition – and surely there will be if Gordon leaves. Hopefully that is someone who we believe can become better than Calvert-Lewin over time – that is how we improve.

Hopefully, having steadied the ship with a lot of Premier League ready but also fairly average players in Maupay, Tarkowski, Coady and McNeil - we start to look for higher potential players at source in South America, France etc in coming Windows. Otherwise, we will be perpetually average.

Delusional, soft-brained nonsense.

Our squad is, as it stands, weaker than last season's.

Our immediate rivals have strengthened, or are in the process of doing so.

I'm sick of the section of our fanbase who absurdly believe we deserve better because of what amounts to ancient history.

Being honest about our current situation and location on the totem pole is not equivalent to offering succour to that bastard Kenwright. If anything, the relentless need to attack other fans does far more to enable him than any imaginary crime you might accuse others of.

Robert @160 "I am hopeful there will be another forward acquisition - and surely there will be if Gordon leaves. Hopefully that is someone who we believe can become better than DCL over time" I wonder if that is Pedro? We will only go after him as a Gordon replacement, someone who can play along the front line and offers high potential.

We are 8 points off the top of the Premier League. How in the name of fuck is that a relegation fight?

And people like you are part of the fucking problem.

But most of you know why we weren't. Regardless, he's a good player and will do well even though he's hardly “prolific”. A very good squad addition.

So your comment about being 8 points off the top was bollocks then?

Wouldn't have been my choice had it been down to me, but a pair of wellies with a hole in is better than none at all.

Who knows… he may suddenly become the top scorer, Golden Clog etc. Nurse, nurse, my medication is making me hallucinate again!

We send out Simms on loan to bring in a Maupay? Is a striker who scores 8 or 9 a season a striker? Tick the box you want.

The points ratio since the start of the year (0.88 a game with EFC the bottom of the league) needs reversing and honestly I can't see the kind of business done in this window turning the curve up much.

I said something similar to a Gooner pal just now. At least this time we are buying an underwhelming option rather than our usual strategy of over-paying for a future star who disappoints.

3 games in, we are not scrapping relagation yet!! Just like if we were top after 3 games, we wouldn't be thinking we're going to win the Premier League!!

It's a long season and only just started. These negative comments will just breed more negativity and put Frank under more pressure than he should be.

People want everything solved in 1 transfer window.. deluded! Sensible fans realise the massive job Frank has, that will take time and patience from fans or we will just be hopping from manager to manager forever getting nowhere.

Let's give Frank a chance, get off his back and support what he's trying to do!

We are signing Brighton rejects now!! Dear me!

Ciaràn @163. We were joking about that in the live forum. 8 points from the top!!!!? You can't be serious!

2 points below where we were at this point in 84/85.

For those who consider that ancient, our 1 point is less than the 7 we'd accumulated after the first 3 games last season.

It's August. We're in the next round of the League Cup and I'm going to break my Emirates duck next month.

This is the problem with this signing in a nutshell.

Is he or isn't he? It seems several managers aren't yet convinced??

Some would say an uninspiring signing. On the other hand, he is coming in as a squad player.

Naismith gave his all and never let us down. Okay, that is because we never really expected much. But in both cases, they were what we could get at the time and I can live with that.

I would have preferred that money to go on Brereton Diaz, and I'd still like to see us sign him. But I am more trusting of the judgement of the professionals than most on here.

If, as seems likely, Gordon goes for daft money to Chelsea, we may have the chance to sign a 㿏M player to create and score chances. Until then, 'better than Rondon' is the best we can hope for.

It was thinking the exact same thing with Naismith. Granted he's a lot more expensive but could have a similar utility.

I read it wrong the first time, and thought "How can we be 2 points behind what we have now?"

Apologies

Steve # 162. Yes, Joao Pedro might be that high-quality long-term player. Strange to me, that we hunt such a player out from Watford rather than in Brazil or elsewhere, where the prices are so much lower.

I love your enthusiasm and I look for your posts just to cheer me up. However I think we both don't believe that this lot could do an 84-85 again.

Like you, I constantly believe but, by Christ, this lot make it hard.

If we had unlimited funds and no problem with FFP we wouldn't be looking at Maupay but we haven't and we have!

This guy is a decent pragmatic solution and will be a good squad player. Yes, we need better but that might come if Gordon goes and we therefore solve cash and FFP issues.

A good, solid buy for me!

If we are not in a relegation battle, what is our current state? We have to have some sort of physical reality.

If you say, well we're not in a relegation battle as we don't know the outcome of the season. That's like saying we can't confirm you're alive until we see that you died at which point we say "he used to be alive."

This sort of "it's a marathon not a sprint" is a poor analogy. Mo Farrah hangs back the first few laps of the 10,000m until the other jokers get knackered then he flies forward. But there is no cumulative scoring effect on the race's outcome if he is in last place for a few laps.

A better analogy would be a tennis game where a series of events each have an outcome that directly affects the final outcome. In which case we are down love – 2 in the first set. Yes, it's recoverable but, having dropped serve, we are losing, ergo we are in a relegation battle at this time.

I know you're not that way inclined, but I'm just not getting the panic and hysteria.

And one step closer to Wembley with a winnable next round.

“Frank Lampard wants Everton's recruitment to be completed much earlier in the years ahead.

"I hope that the powers that be understand that this isn't the perfect way to do it.

"It's far too long into the season, there's no doubt. We want to look at the season with a balance, so we can construct a squad from the start of the season to the end.

"Now, we're going to be, by the time the window shuts, nigh on six games in and for me that doesn't feel right and I hope they get that right next time."

Hey Frank, welcome to our world. Exactly what did Kenwright & Moshiri promise you? Did you get it in writing? Have you cancelled any plans for next Wednesday night?

Nice to hear Lampard speak about the Gordon transfer and debunk the amount of what was quoted as the transfer fee. Still hope he stays.

I don't think we can afford another striker who is better than Calvert-Lewin, and I'm not sure who we can get who will battle him for that starting position.

Oh and a derby win and mid-table.

How can you be in a fight which hasn't started yet?

Yes, he did. Surprised it's taken so long to say it…… in public at least.

We were most certainly in a relegation fight 3 months or so ago and we have done precious little, if anything, to change that landscape. As Rob Jones has pointed out, others have strengthened around us meanwhile.

The Magpies sign Isak for 㿨M. We sign Ballsack for peanuts.

Having said that, if we get the recruitment right, we could even improve. But it's a dangerous strategy, and will mean for the second year running, no actual investment in a ramshackle squad.

Probably helps if you're going to insist on playing Russian roulette that you've been bankrolled by one of Putin's besties. maybe this was just another far sighted plan by Sir William?

I think Frank was referring to the window being open until six games in. And he would like it closed before the leauge starts. "The powers that be" — I thought he meant the Premier League. People are too quick to read negatively.

It's like when Frank said he's not going to say that Gordon will definitely be here at the end of the window as he doesn't know if he will be. People took it as, if he doesn't get what he wants, he's gone.

But what he meant was it would be naive to guarantee anything or he would be setting himself up for a fall.

People making shit up now to support their narrative. God help Frank if this is our "support" for him.

Those numbers include penalties, but I don't have time this morning to pull up a breakdown of how many penalties each player has scored. I agree with the poster who says goals from open play is the goal standard.

Tony #88, thanks for posting that. It's good perspective.

Andrew#149, good summary IMO. You may very well be right that Frank wants his particular style to meld into the team he wants to put on the pitch.

Calvert-Lewin's performance when playing has been underwhelming: poor positionally, woeful on the ground, with poor finishing shooting. He is good at heading the ball, but rarely attacks the near post.

The only time he p!ays well is when he is injured, and seems to have a standard of abilities that are not seen when he actually plays.

Not full circle yet, Steve, only semi-circle – full circle will be back to the Holy Trinity era!! So there is quite a way to go yet to complete the circle.

By next Saturday evening, we will have played 6 games and, if results go as expected, will likely have 2 points, possibly 3 out of 18 available, with Arsenal away to come next.

Once the league is set, it is difficult for teams such as ours to go on a winning run. We may win one or two and then lose 4 dependent upon fixtures so it is tough to climb the league and improve position as points gaps start to appear between the usual grouping of teams.

Unfortunately we are in the bottom grouping of the worst 5 teams.

The Friday before the FA Cup semi-final, we threw away against them (the last one) I had a bit of so-called banter with him in Formby. My actual words was "There's nothing down for you tomorrow." then I got a load of verbal abuse, calling me a blue this n that.

Obviously I gave it back told him their fans are an embarrassment everywhere they go him also. Wouldn't get out his car, kopite gobshite. Told Kendall what happened a few weeks later, he was a gent and didn't want to comment on it, which is fair enough as he lived there.

Martin #180, interesting comparison.

It's going to be tough. I thought the Moyes years were bad and then I think about Arteta, Pienaar and Cahill in that team. Have we got anyone like them now?

I hope I am wrong and I hope we complete two exciting signings before the window closes.

Maupay might not be the first choice for many on here, but he is decent enough considering our financial position. He pesters defenders and, as mentioned by many above, he will further add to the character of the team with leaders like Coady, Tarkowski and Onana.

Clearly the Manager and the DoF have identified what we have known for a long time that, with the odd exception, our team lacked leaders and backbone and they are clearly addressing this with their recent signings.

I may well be in the minority here but I am happy with this signing and with the direction we are moving.

Many fans will still be in denial that we're not in a relegation scrap by then.

He wouldn't have been my first pick and, if the fee is close to 㾽M as some are suggesting, then I think Brighton will be pretty happy.

Not an exciting signing per se but – similar to Tarkowski and Coady – he can do a job.

Signing him at same time that Newcastle are getting Isak and West Ham might be getting Paqueta seems very indicative of the clubs' different trajectories over the last year or so. We all have to adjust to the unfortunate reality that our most likely rivals this season are Fulham, Forest, Bournemouth etc. If there was an available 15/20 goal striker out there (I'm not sure there is), he probably wouldn't want to come here anyway.

If Lampard can implement his system, make us hard to beat, and develop the likes of Patterson, Gordon, Mykolenko, Onana, Warrington, Welch etc then hopefully we can finish 14th/15th and have a more solid foundation to build upon next season.

Newcastle and West Ham also already have the stadiums, and yes West Ham were gifted theirs.

Love you're optimism. Toney is gonna rip us apart tomorrow, we're going to lose our next 3 games, unreal.

We've only played 3 games, we have the same pessimistic views on here from a certain few followers, and complaining about us buying Maupay, hopefully in my opinion, and Newcastle spending 㿨M on Isak, how many even heard of him before Howe bought him?

Anyone know if Maupay has signed and registered?

That's been the problem, spending huge sums of money on players who don't perform any better.

Take Newcastle and Isak. 32 goals in 103 games in arguably an easier league compared to Maupay's 26 in 102 games in the Premier League.

How the chuff can the new Barcodes man be worth 4 times as much?

Some People!!!

This player could improve players who have been getting a bit of stick after only three league games, McNeil ... cough cough.

Calvert -Lewin was banging the goals in 2 years ago – all provided from wide players getting good balls into the danger area. What option have these players got to aim for: Gordon, false number nine; before he left, pre-season Alli, false number nine; Rondon who, for all his efforts, just does not have it to be in the danger zone.

So what Maupay might lack, he will bring an improvement on other players, it is down to him to put those chances away when they come his way. If not Maupay, then whichever striker we sign.

But for me, if we get a striker, we will improve in other key areas as well, win-win for me.

And if we'd have had a Radzinski in the last three league games, I fancy we'd have got a point against both Chelsea and Villa, and a win over Forest.

I always think a striker has to be judged in the context of the service he receives. Not easy for our guys over the last 30 years.

Wouldn't be surprised to see Maupay expected to get on the end of some long balls from Tarkowski and Coady. Time will tell.

Ray @209; alternatively after 6 games, we might be on 10 points.

If this is the best we can do, it is really worrying.

So another game with either that softy Gordon or that fucking donkey Rondon at Number 9.

Fan-fucking-tastic.

"Get a striker" they say, anyone is better than Rondon. We look like getting one with comparable stats to Richarlison and we are getting relegated!!! What the fuck!!

People don't want us to progress or they won't have their favourite hobby of moaning about the Blues.

Rondon actually made some pretty good runs through the box early in the Forest game, but the crosses missed him -- one in particular by Vinagre sailed just over his head. Not sure whether the run or the service was more to blame, but a striker can't score without the combination of both.

And the longer the game went on, the worse our crosses got. No striker on the planet could have scored off some of the crap we were putting in.

I said when we brought in Rondon that his scoring record sucked, and he has certainly lived down to it, but the blame is not all his.

Marcus Bent was a completely uninspiring signing but his willingness to chase anything that moved and running the channels suited our 4-1-4-1 system fairly well, in my opinion.

Frank is still insisting that Gordon is our player and will be available for selection tomorrow but, knowing Everton's luck, were he to play, he'd probably get wounded and end up going for 㾻M rather than than 㿞M – as happened with Barkley.

Me, always fearing the worst? Never!!!

Thinking of building a squad, this isn't a big letdown, he's useful, but only with someone like Broja or an in-form Calvert-Lewin could he make a difference in the final third where we need the most help. He certainly isn't the type of forward who can make it happen on his own.

My mate's son was a Uni there at the time, unfortunately didn't do it for them.

We try to keep looking on the bright side and try to be optimistic but they keep producing the same old garbage on the field.

Last-minute desperation deals because of mistakes made earlier seem to be the norm.

With selling Richarlison, they, for some reason let two promising young strikers go on loan and then don't have the confidence to start Rondon.

Most of us agree Rondon is not up to snuff so who was going to partner Calvert-Lewin before he got injured???

That partnership didn't look like something to savor anyway but what did the club do? Absolutely nothing... or were they in too deep with finances that they couldn't?

Seems at least now they are freeing up some wages with Dele and Gbamin going on loan but the future does look grim with what we have left, especially on the offensive side of things.

He's no prime Ronaldo but he is happy to use both feet, good with his back to goal in the box, can strike a ball well, and is a niggly little pain in the arse for the opposition.

Would suit playing as one of two strikers in a 3-5-2 or inside forward in a 3-4-3. Unfortunately those look like the formations that will be foisted on the squad.

Maupay runs the channels well but I don't remember how useful he was bringing the ball out of their third. As long as he isn't selfish in possession, there are some useful aspects of his game that we would no doubt benefit from if utilized properly.

Maybe some of the seers could send through the result as it's a seemingly foregone conclusion. We can then just stick a bet on and stay home.

The problem I can see with him is simply he doesn't score enough goals...still a welcome addition like but we need another striker still, imho.

1-1 draw.

Maupay was hopefully easiest and quickest to snare because there was least competition for his signature but for our other targets we have to let the transfer window domino effect to begin.

If they do, Lampard could become a Kendall-type legend; the alternative is we get into the relegation mix again. It will take a miracle for us to recover because, amidst these multiple incoming buys, we've lost 2 exceptional players.

Muapay has 5 penalties to Richarlison's 4 in the Premier League. Muapay's were in a team trying to cement their holding in the league too.

Some on this site don't like me revealing my age or length of support, so I'll just say that I witnessed Everton's relegation in 1951 and I have never left the ground before the final whistle.

I don't single out players for criticism, it's my belief that games are won or lost as a team, and I never predict results as I believe that anything can happen in a game of football, a prime example being the victory of Wigan Athletic over Manchester City in the FA Cup Final.

"Calvert Lewin was banging them in two years ago. "

That was under Ancelotti and his advice to try to score with one touch. At the end of that season, Calvert-Lewin poo-pooed the suggestion that this advice helped. He has never applied that advice since when he has played.

Ancelotti IMO suggested one touch to focus Calvert-Lewin to get in the right position. Calvert-Lewin thinks he is better than that and the fact is he isn't.

Oh, wait a minute…

In my late '80s too, I no longer go to games but don't miss many – thanks to gizmos and magic boxes my grandkids set up for me.

Unlike your goodself, I see little joy in the crap we've had served up to us in the Premier League era and have to wonder if the tolerance and goodwill you extend to Kenwright & Co isn't partly the reason he is still here to call most of the shots?

I admire your 70 years of patience and goodwill towards all things Everton but I tend to see the world with both eyes open!

I respect everyone's right to follow Everton from wherever they are or however they can. I've had to do it myself from many different locations and by different means over my 50 years.

But I get your point. Until that whistle goes and that last ball is kicked, It's never over.

Against Palace last season, when I mistakenly ended up amongst the Palace fans, I had to be removed from the ground by the stewards. Not because I was causing trouble, but because I was last man standing after they had all congratulated me after watching me and taking in the atmosphere. They were shutting the stadium down.

Many times I end up at Lime Street at 5 am in the morning waiting for the first train back to Euston. Last week, I stayed until the end to see the equaliser. It only gave me 45 minutes to get out of the Upper Gwladys and into town to get the last coach back to London (train strikes). 2 minutes to spare.

Some seem to judge after minutes, let alone a couple of games.

See you in the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock and then Wembley. I don't care what the doctor says, it's a Guinness.

The Palace game when Calvert-Lewin scored was the perfect option for the players to whip a ball in. When Calvert-Lewin has been out, because of Rondon's poor awareness and also false number nines, it has given less options to get a ball in the box.

McNeil has been written off. I would say judge him when he can play to his strengths of feeding the strikers and getting quality balls into the box. A bit harsh judging him after only three league games. It's only since we have started playing Iwobi in his favoured position of inside forward that we are now seeing the difference. The same will happen with McNeil, I have faith in the guy.

One other difference if we get Maupay is the likes of Patterson and Mykolenko will be able to get those crosses in. So, although Maupay might not be to everyone's liking, he will bring so many more of our players into play.

You can go back to all our great wingers – Morrissey, Thomas, Steven etc – they all had one great asset: a target man to aim for... Royle, Latchford, Sharp, Gray. Down the byline and cross in the danger area, These strikers would be there on the end of them. This season, we have put some crosses in and you hear the crowd groan saying "Who was that to?"

The player who put the cross in has done their job; however, because our striker had not got into that position, it had made the other player look bad. How many times has Coleman put a first-time cross in but no-one there? Same with Mykolenko. If Maupay has that awareness of getting in those positions, it's half the battle won straight away.

Could be a very shrewd signing, this.

Quite honestly, I believe Everton messed up sending him out on loan to Sunderland.

Perhaps, that will be the cue for his retirement ?

Yes, Naismith at Norwich was a funny one, kind of like Anichebe at WBA. Both did okay and got the chance to be the main man elsewhere but just floundered.

I don't know if it's the pressure of the spotlight or just the more they play the more the weaknesses become apparent? But then again didn't Naismith score a perfect hat-trick versus Chelsea? So that couldn't have been a fluke right?

We will probably get an update on Monday from Bobble saying talks are at an early stage. Bill is holding the receiver and is thinking about dialing the first number to call Brighton.

You see, we were only close to sealing. Big difference, I suppose.

“That was under Ancelotti and his advice to try to score with one touch. At the end of that season, Calvert-Lewin poo-pooed the suggestion that this advice helped. He has never applied that advice since when he has played.”

The first part of the statement is open knowledge but the second half … ? How do you know this?

On the subject of Maupay, if he scores 9 or 10 goals, he will match Richarlison's goal tally but I wait to see if he compensates for Richarlison's tracking back, helping the defence, gaining free-kicks and all-round enthusiastic play. Is he that sort of player? I must admit that I have paid little attention to his all-round play.

I think that's what happened last season to the point of near-disaster (and it came close to happening in previous seasons): the players thought they were good enough to perform when it suited them and that they were far too good ever to go down. That has also been the philosophy of the Board for a long time, and dictates their own behaviour. Such is the real pessimism and the real recipe for mediocrity.

Delusion will do for us if we're not extremely careful and it's already happening. We had a massive warning last season and we'd best heed it by recognising the stakes we now face – by which I mean right now.

1 point from 9 with games already played against two of our main competitors in our mini-League. We need to see what's right in front of our eyes. Maupay or no Maupay.

Link

I don't understand why negotiations continue post medical? Surely we agree money then the medical is just like getting an MOT on a car to make sure it's not a lemon. But we seem to have a lot of these deals get to the medical than unravel unless the player is clearly crocked in which case we push it through anyway.

I would gladly run him over in a Chieftain Tank !

In Court " I thought it was a large mound of detritus Your Honour "

Yes you are absolutely correct " Case Dismissed " :-)

Regrettably your 100% right, he will never go.

I gotta ask... how many times do I have to read this stuff from you about pugwash, yachts, the ribbon at BMD?

I don't think anyone else is gonna tell you, but please... give it a fucking rest, will ya! — He's signed already!!!

Neal Maupay has completed a move from Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee, signing a three-year contract until the end of June 2025 with an option of a further year.

Welcome. May you be a lovely surprise.

Ideally we could do with the guy from Blackburn and maybe Broja plus Gallagher for this window as a minimum. I can dream...

Another couple of signings by Wednesday night, a winger and midfielder hopefully, and a few of our non contributory high earners out, will have us turned a corner, and heading in the right direction by Frank and our DOF.

Did anyone else on here listen to Holgate talking about how we need to score goals? No shit, Sherlock. I'm not his biggest admirer but he spoke okay and said the mood in the camp was upbeat.

Said "Del" had wanted more game time and was disappointed not to get it.

I hope Maupay can play tomorrow but it sounds as though some know it was too late. What a balls-up if that's true. He's been on Merseyside over 48 hours... doh!!

Good performances from him might equate to good results for us. I can see this guy pulling defences around for our other front men to take advantage of space created.

Seems like Frank isn't going to put up with this either. Problem is he can walk but we're fans and have nowhere else to go.

Got a strange feeling Rondon will get a hat-trick tomorrow!

Still do not believe Gordon will go this window anyway, would be very irresponsible in my view if the club bowed to Chelsea.

One central mid fielder and keep Anthony Gordon and we will have an improved campaign.

DOF and manager appear to be making the calls which is a help!

I think he might be a bit narky, and hopefully, based on what Frank said, that's what we're after across the team. So good.

Good luck, and welcome 🙏🏼

Hi Danny [256] I realise that there are some who leave a few minutes early to enable them to avoid traffic problems, or as in your case, to catch a train. I was referring to those who 'stream out' when the opposition score.

I can't recall the particular game but there was one occasion last season when the opposition scored early in the second-half and that was the signal for a mass exodus from the Park End. Needless to say, that led to the chant from the visiting fans of "Is there a fire drill?"

I have always been of the opinion that "If you can't lose, don't play, and if you can't watch your team lose, don't go." Regarding the bottle of Guinness, I'm prepared to ignore the doctor's orders and I'm looking forward to meeting you again.

“Everton have contacted James Garner's representatives. He's open to joining Everton.”

Unlike Rondon who does his best Leaning Tower of Pisa act.

Brian, if it had that effect on you, I'd supply you for the rest of your TW days!

"That was the signal for a mass exodus from the Park End."

That is why I have always sat in the Gwladys Street end. Plus, as a bonus, you get a restricted view.

Another EFC fuck up.

We need another one up front and I hope we get Kudus and a central midfielder too at least.

But he's here now so I can only hope he proves me completely wrong. I'll happily eat humble pie if that happens.

"Better than Rondon" (Our new motto).

I guess we're going at it again, except this time against a rather more tenuous backdrop... and the big purchases aren't over maybe.

"I am very happy to sign for the Toffees and with a new stadium now being built, I believe good times lay ahead. Aston Villa showed interest but I believe this was the wise move due to a number of factors, Gerrard was not a very inspiring man, I do not say more………."

Welcome, Neal, to the greatest club on earth, with the greatest fans (apart from a few on here) in football. Just stay off this shit show of a forum where you will be hounded to death for tying your boots up the wrong way, and you will be fine!

"I have quickly learned one thing in my short time at Everton: Kenwright Out!"

We are stronger than yesterday with more goal threat!!

Get a grip with expectations of who we can sign. Good value in my opinion.

Kieran, I don't believe Maupay posted that if he's only said it once.

It is not easy fitting in with a different group of players after playing for a couple of seasons with another club that may play to a different set of tactics.

It seems to me that we have the DoF and the manager finally being able to work together in bringing in the type of player they need without interference from others.

This is another team player that should improve the team at a price we can afford.

"Best of luck to the boys heading out to Turkey."

I hate to be a killjoy but those two have sat on their arses and done fuck-all for 2 years, been paid ridiculous amounts of money, never worked a day, multi millionaires, both in mid twenties, now off to sunny Turkey, and they will both be back leaching again – "best of luck" they definitely do not need!

Good luck to the lad. I hope he proves a big hit!

And I've always been of the opinion that “If you can't tolerate when other fans at the game leave the stadium, then don't go on ToffeeWeb whinging about it.”

Welcome to Everton FC, Neal. Only two phrases you need to know are: Kopites are gobshites and UTFT.

Anyway, welcome Neal, bon chance, hope you make me look foolish for doubting your goalscoring.

Either our DoF and manager have their hands firmly tied behind their backs or are so stupid they have put us where we are in this perilous position of being cut adrift early in the season!

No manager would have intentionally been so inept to believe that weakening the squad would make us safe. A useless winger, relegated; two centre-backs, one dropped from his team the other relegated, playing possibly the worst centre-forward in the top two divisions, a cast-off full-back, 㿊M for Onana who we could have had for ٤M last year and has a 20% sell-on fee attached.

I truly believe that someone high up at Everton wants this team relegated and Lampard is in on it or very naive.

And yes, I really love a good conspiracy theory.

I reckon Che Adams was probably first choice but Southampton priced him out of the equation. Fair play to them. Adams ain't a great goal scorer but he is a presence in an average team that they cannot do without.

Maupay is very similar to Adams in playing style. His statistical output is also similar in similarly performing teams.

Ultimately. He will work his socks off. He'll be a pain. He'll chip in with around 8 goals and about 2 or 3 assists.

Minus Calvert-Lewin, there is nobody in this squad capable of 5 or more goals this season, so this can only be viewed as a step in the right direction. We are more or less guaranteed those 8 goals.

Seldom is he injured and the only reason he hasn't featured yet is because he was always going to leave and Potter had moved on.

In other news. Interesting that Hans Vanaken is being linked with West Ham. A player I identified for Everton a couple of years back.

No one related to Everton wants this club relegated. Who on earth would benefit from it?!?

All of us need to remember that, despite the fact that football teams are global brands, most of them are small to medium businesses and don't have the quality of people commercially to be a successful business.

Go back to your random conspiracies.

There's some absolutely bollocks put on this site from all the “experts” but that comment wins the Shite Trophy 2022.

Congratulations… you've won our first trophy since 1995…. But please keep it to yourself.

Shame that Dutch lad is not coming but we've got time, I suppose.

Then we just need to trust the Lampard / Thelwell plan(!) – it'll be a rollercoaster season.

I think he'll do alright and, whatever, at least we've signed a forward!

I quite like the look of Brereton Diaz on YouTube but assume that Maupay is it now up front.

Garner might also be a bit of a stealthy coup. Gana maybe, too, is going to land. Iwobi blossoming at No 10. And who's that incoming, goalscoring winger who turns out to be a Thelwell masterstroke? Er, someone.

God, I'm starting to feel minimally optimistic.

None of Tarkowski, Coady or Maupay are particularly inspiring but should add some grit and determination to the team and make us harder to beat. If we can still get Gueye plus another attacker, we should have enough to stay up and build from there.

That'll be a good starting point after what happened last season.

After it was announced that Ancelotti was leaving, Calvert-Lewin was asked had he benefited from Ancelotti's coaching on the one-touch approach. Calvert-Lewin said that it may have helped occasionally, but was not significant in him getting his goal tally for that season.

Most of the goals he scored were one-touch. He was probably falling into line with the attitude at Everton regarding Ancelotti at that time. But he does not make the effort to get into position for the one-touch when he has played since.

This is in direct contradiction to what he said when Ancelotti was Manager:

"Calvert-Lewin explained the importance of continuing to put himself in goalscoring positions – and outlined how manager Ancelotti has ensured his confidence has remained high. He said:

“The ball hadn't quite been dropping for me in these past few games but I never stopped believing one is going to come – it's down to me to stay on the move in that 6-yard box and I was there tonight to put it in. ”

I promise not to criticise them again, and that this will be the last time I will discuss the matter.

No shit, Sherlock, 4 games in and points lost. We are playing catch-up already with 1 point on the board.

Good luck to the lad, still time to move a couple more out and get a couple in.

The new signings have character. I see Maupay as Stracqualursi or Tosun with a bit more quality, he will be a good fit for us. We need to construct a midfield which allows Iwobi to get in the box more.

In fact, the whole team needs to get in the box more. Look at our play from a skycam – we seldom have more than 2 in the box.

We've been soft forever, and been bullied as a result. Instead, we now have a winner for a manager, and we're signing bastards (in the best possible sense).

Let's hope that the aggression permeates through the squad.

So good luck, Neal.

Every player ripped apart by the armchair experts. Imagine the shite that would have been spoken in years gone by regards:

“Old Arse fullback playing for Huddersfield, for fuck's sake!”

“Why buy some bloke from Blackpool, for fuck's sake... We are Everton!”…

“Preston… for fuck's sake... Preston... jeez, we are Everton!”

“Dear lord… he's broken every bone available… Do us a favour... Wolves for fuck's sake...”

“Oh Fuck… no one wants to touch an injury broken relic from… Bolton…. Jeez… we are Everton!”

“A pisshead scrapper from Birmingham… do us a favour… should be in jail”

“Oh fuck… can't get into Liverpool team… why us?”

”A fuckin ex-Binman... from Llandudno?… do us a favour”

” He's a thug… he's goin to jail… what a waste… We are Everton for jeez sake”

And on and on and on and….on.

"Yes.., those Everton fans really know their football” – another urban myth.

As Neil Young said: “Don't Be Denied”

You call it how you see it, mate! The tone of your posts are spot on. I'm all for criticism where it's warranted, whether that be owners, board members, players, managers or fans.
It's about it being constructive, not vindictive and just plain nonsense that some people post.

Some people want to force their opinions and agendas on others and if you don't fall in line you are less of an Evertonian. Well it's bollocks

Maupay is a prime example.
Decent player, best years ahead of him, better that any fit forward we have, yet because he's from Brighton, because he's not 㿊-40M, it's "Everton are a shambles", "Everton are doomed".

I'd rather have 3 Maupays for 㿙M than Tosun and Walcot all day long.

"I was playing well under Ducan's influence. He (Carlo) didn't really give me too many instructions other than just to be more focused in the box, those were his words. He made quite a big thing of me scoring off one touch which has worked well this season.

"He stressed my job is to score goals so if I get players in to create chances my job's to put them in the back of the net and I think particularly in the first part of the season, that's how it went, " Calvert-Lewin said.

The binman remark just made me crack up but that's an excellent post.

Brent @357, I know, it was ever thus, a small shaft of sunlight shone down on the rain-besieged town, then it was clouded over by the "He's Shite!" brigade. He hasn't even taken his coat off...

We may not have the glamourous names, we may not play the best football, but we're kings of shithousing and no-one will enjoy playing us!

My expectations for Maupay are relatively modest but I think the fans will like his endeavour and energy. And compared to 㿇M for Tosun, 㾻M for Maupay is an absolute master stroke.

Not exactly something you'd rush to have printed on a T-shirt, Sam.

Let's hope it gets results.

That is a good point.

Maupay, last three seasons, was 30+ Premier League games each season.

We now have a bit of steel. And am not talking about the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.

UTFT

Just to point out I am Brian W and so is my Mrs, blessed are the cheesemakers! :-)

Welcome to Everton, Maupay.

I don't class him as a striker but he should be aiming for 10+ goals and can play with a striker.

He's a Naismith type of player who should out-run Alli in about 10 minutes.

Maupay had seven yellows in League games last season and 18 in his last two seasons in the Championship. That's not just nark, that's downright spicy. No question, Frank is emphasizing edge.

Re Maupay – how can one criticise a player before he even wears a blue shirt? It matters not who he previously played for – it is how he performs for us that counts. Seeing that Frank phoned him a few days earlier, show he wanted Maupay in his squad.

Welcome, Neal, hope you are a big success. And just to upset the moaners, I never rated Calvert-Lewin as a great striker though I had the courtesy not to moan.

And as for Frank not building a strong squad!! As Christine recently pointed out, we are only two players short of a decent team. We now have one and I am still looking at a mid-table finish to the season – and winning Danny's Cup (and possibly the other one too!).

In Frank I Trust.

Maupay... done.
Diaz... close.
Pedro... maybe?

All good for me, feeling kinda hopeful for the season ahead... oh to finish 7th and Euro footy in our final season at the Old Lady next season would be so sublime!

COYBB

Tofeewebs Godwin.

Bugger Wembley... Neil Young at BMD would do me.

The squad last season was full of fannies that stumbled over the line in the end when they should've been relegated. There's a tough spine to the team now especially if Gueye comes in as well.

Frank's got the right idea – sort out weakest, then we can move forward.

Oh, and sell Gordon now!

It's just like the news, mate – nobody wants to hear about the good news, they want to hear what bad things have been happening.

People don't want to hear that Maupay has pretty much the same record as Richarlison in the Premier League, even tho they have been screaming for his replacement since he left. They'd rather know why Brighton want to sell.

I don't claim to be a DoF, or qualified in football accountancy, a coach or a scout like a few on here. I support what Frank & Kev are doing because I see a change in direction.

It's not blind support, I didn't like Koeman or Allardyce. I thought Silva could've come good with time – and that is what is needed now, time. Time for Frank to build long-term.

Maupay might be a means to an end, he may not be here in 2 years as we progress, he might become a favourite of the fans for his efforts and desire, which I think he will. But it's all stepping stones to bigger things.

We are not going to be competing for Haaland or Jesus just yet, so sit back, people – get on board, back the manager, if there's no progress this time next year, then judge him.

It is only about 5 years ago when he played ‘A Day in the Life' with Macca (funnily enough) and he broke all the strings in his guitar.

Did 'Auto Predict' change it to 'Must be better than Ronaldo' and they only noticed yesterday?

The strategy seems to be to solidify the team and then, maybe when we are out of the FFP woods in a year or two, we can start to augment with bigger names. A very good season would be a mid-table finish. It's the reality of where we are at the moment.

Good luck, Neal — unleash hell.

Pleased we've got a proficient striker in. We actually create a few chances nowadays; now we have a forward, you never know.

I think you're right, Lampard wants fighters in his team, work rate and desire go a long way and for any team to be any good they need the grafters who will chase down and hassle. It's a spine to be built on, one we can add quality to without sacrificing points. I like it when a plan comes together!

''He's a Naismith type of player who should out-run Alli in about 10 minutes.''

Sums it up nicely, exactly what we need and exactly what we haven't had since Naismith.

Welcome to the club, Maupay!

LOL

If I wasn't convinced he is the right fit, I am now.

Sounds about right... 🙄😔

I really love this signing. He is more of a No 8 or a No 10 than a classic striker but he is every bit as good as offer unspectacular as players like James Milner, Johnny Morrissey, and our own Tim Cahill.

Welcome to Everton, Neal.

Though not a back-against-the-goal type of target man like Calvert-Lewin or Rondon, Maupay's versatility across the front line would mesh well with all of our forwards and allow Frank to play a fluid set-up with more flair (regardless of Gordon staying or not).

A minor negative is that Maupay is given a "Player Option" to extend the deal for a 4th year that will bring him to 31 years of age.

Otherwise, another economical, relatively under-the-radar but practical acquisition by Thelwell.

Christine, agree, but also I learned that no plan survives contact with the enemy, so always be able to adapt and have Plan B, Plan C... and if that fails, just wing it!!!!

Brian Murray – are you being picked on or just fatigued? Man hugs at the next match. I'll put an arm around you!

Kieran @309. I was in the Upper Gwladys last Saturday in the worst possible seat. Front row but right in front of a post. I had to keep moving my head left to right to follow the game. When I took my seat second half, the lad alongside me pulled a seat to my right down and told me to sit there. Apparently the season ticket holder never returns for the 2nd half and spends it talking with his mates in the concourse. Oh well, perfect view for me, so thank you!!

Rob Halligan @318. True or not, that does it for me!!

I'm now checking the odds for a Rondon Hat Trick on Paddy Power.

Michael @344. Hate is a strong word, but I always use that as a mark of respect. In a conversation with Stephen Vincent last Saturday, we both agreed that there is nothing worse than when a Kopite in-law or cousin tells you that they don't mind Everton. Insulting.

Chris @360. Quality. Just quality.

Bernie, the cup but 7th and qualification for the European Conference Competition thing.

I fly out to the US today so can't be at the next few matches. I'll be back for Arsenal away, so those who have my number and want to meet, give me a shout.

27/35.

Forever

Hopefully there is another striker coming in to provide competition. Gueye's deal is, at this point, annoying, feels like it's going to be a hit-or-miss on Deadline Day.

I'll reserve judgment to see how he integrates into the team. He seems thrilled to be here, he can make himself an instant hero this week by scoring the winner at Leeds and then giving Liverpool the runaround next week, UTFT 💙

So a 10-ish-goals-a-season striker will do for me. 10th place. Even Ancelotti couldn't do better than that.

Rondon has scored 1 goal in 22 appearances. I'm not sure how that can equate to "slightly" worse than Maupay.
Don't get me wrong: I like Rondon. I'd put him in my team every time.

Thing is we play in the 3rd division of a rural Australian league. The only way he should be in an Everton shirt is if he bought one at the ToffeeShop.

Everton are my longest love BTW. 62 years and counting.

Player of the Season already.

I am afraid even Jesus can't save us. He will be left alone on top pressing the ball. When we counter-attack, the wingers will dribble and fire the shot without considering him.

Graveyard for strikers. Look at Beatie and Yakubu. Well Lukaku is the only one to buck this trend.

I hope all of Thelwell's team are working Bank Holiday Monday. Thursday is fast approaching, so a Bank Holiday day off is a definite no-no.

I have no problem with Maupay other than how to pronounce his surname – is it Mow - pay or More - pie? He looks like the opposition niggling forward that we've lacked for donkey's!!

Give the guy a chance.

Do we need to get 3 points today? You bet we do or we are rock bottom for the foreseeable future with the run of fixtures coming up.

A really good end to the window is needed if we are going to move up to mid-table.

Looking forward to seeing him play.

I don't think I remember what a cup run looks like but agree that it would be magic!

Leeds away on Tuesday and the. The RS at Goodison next weekend. I'm starting to get that ominous feeling again.

Just hope we strengthen further and stick with Frank as I can at least see a plan and some tenacity in the players we're recruiting.

Didn't Yakubu score 20 in a season for us? I'd take that graveyard!!

Just when I was beginning to have faith in our recruitment. Waste of money. Waste of time, waste of a shirt. In addition, I despise the little shit for what he did when Brighton beat us at Goodison last season. Walked the full length of the pitch to wind up the Gwladys Street.

It's not like he was good enough that we were givin' him stick through the game! Can't get into the Brighton side, so we've bought him. What the fuck!!! I'm feckin' fumin'!!! 🤬

Sounds like just the sort of guy who we need if he can dish it out when taking it.

He's on our side now though but I'd love him if he done that in an Everton shirt in front of the red shite fans next week after scoring!!!!

Give the lad a chance. Go look at his record compared with Richarlison. Lad's on same level 㿔M cheaper than we got for Richarlison.

Don't know who some people are expecting us to sign?

I have had my angry head on all morning at the news about Maupay. Your last para made me laugh out loud. Thanks for cheering me up. I appreciate your sense of humour.

God knows we need one as Bluenoses and mine had deserted me for a while there.

I really hope I'm wrong too, matey. I'd be happy to go to buy & eat humble pie, as I can't bake. I'm not always right, of course, but I'm pretty confident on this one.

David at 433, to quote Derek at 176, Nurse, nurse, David's medication is giving him hallucinations!!

Which brings me to another point: we are three games in, our defence looks like a proper one, midfield has more bite, so as long as we don't sit and let teams come at us, we are going to be harder to beat. Far better than last season but not yet good enough.

We had a better shape with Rondon as it freed up Gordon and Gray, lost when he was subbed... learn lesson, play with a striker or makeshift one if need be!

Do this and we won't get beat, might be difficult to win, but go for set-pieces and corners, best hope for now.

We've had lots of people moaning about us having too many lazy players. Well, this lad will run himself into the ground for us. If he gets us 10+ goals and gives us 100% every game, then I for one won't be getting on his back.

Maupay: 26 in 102
Goal every 3.92

Richarlison: 48 in 175
Goal every 3.64

I loved Richarlison and he mat get even better but was never prolific, 㿙M banked and Maupay. I'd say good business for 26-year-old in coming in to his prime. He's defo the type we need. I don't see why people are so negative about him?

I think Blues are going to love him scrapping and causing trouble for defences, maybe dcl will see him giving his all and turn up his desire a bit too.

But as this is ToffeeWeb, even if we bought Messi and Ronaldo, one would be too small and the other too old. Unless things change, it looks like we are going to rely on Calvert-Lewin's fitness, and that is why they should hold on to Gordon; start scoring and his value will increase.

Okay not likely... but in football almost anything is possible. I say give the lad a chance and a bit of slack. Save booing him on to the pitch (as some are booing him on to ToffeeWeb) for a time when he has consistently failed to perform.

We all want the same thing. Can we just get behind the team, Lampard and the staff, and wish the lad a warm welcome and good luck?

We aren't going to sign a prolific striker from our current position. We are way down the pecking order for players who bang in 18 to 20+ goals a year. We have to gamble on speculative signings from the Championship, players from the Premier League also-rans, and Europe's minor leagues.

Park your doubts and fears – it's not going to change things – and just get behind whoever comes in and give them an even break.

Iridescent Maupay can be about more than goals for Brighton in 2022-23

I suppose we've all watched Brighton at some point and thought 'Bloody hell you should have buried that, lad' but I'm feeling quite positive about the other aspects of his game detailed below.

I didn't know he was such a good passer and at link-up play, which we are absolutely crying out for. Him and Gordon pressing at the same time must mean we would be up there with the best in the Premier League, and I think McNeil is no slouch in that department too. Might come in handy in the derby.

Found an old Gordon shirt at Finch Farm that one of the cleaners was using as a rag, and someone said. "Hang on, we can give that to the new bloke!"

It's only taken 5 days – and yesterday was a Bank Holiday.

GET OUT OF OUR FOOTBALL CLUB

It sums up the Premier League, they can't even manage their diaries.

I do think Everton would have won tonight with a real striker.